1 How sweet is the language of love,
Which dwells on the penitent's tongue!
The theme of their heavenly joys,
The notes of Immanuel's song!
2 'Twas thus with the converts of old,
Though prisons and chains were their lot:
At midnight, when Jesus appear'd,
They sang, and their bands were forgot.
3 Immanuel's glory the theme,
Our hearts are inflam'd with desire;
Or while of his suff'rings we tell,
We wonder, repent, and admire.
4 O blessed Redeemer, we come
With panting, and longing to be
Assured of pardon and peace,
And wholly conformed to thee.
Source: Society hymns, original and selected on evangelical and experimental subjects #XIV
Holden, Oliver, one of the pioneers of American psalmody, was born in 1765, and was brought up as a carpenter. Subsequently he became a teacher and music-seller. He died at Charlestown, Massachusetts, 1844. His published works are American Harmony, 1793; the Worcester Collection, 1797; and other Tune books. One of his most popular tunes is "Coronation." It is thought that he edited a small hymn-book, published at Boston before 1808, in which are 21 of his hymns with the signature "H." A single copy only of this book is known, and that is without title-page. Of his hymns the following are in common use:—
1. All those who seek a throne of grace. [God present where prayer is offered.] Was given in Peabody's Springfield Collection, 1835… Go to person page >
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